"Safety-Certified Robotic Platform for Dynamic Industrial Environments"

This project proposes the adaptation and certification of a mobile safety system for autonomous robotic platforms equipped with articulated arms, operating in dynamic, human-occupied environments. Built on Sensory Robotics’ proven SR-1 technology—currently deployed in industrial settings—the system enables certifiable safety without the need for traditional physical barriers, light curtains, or fixed-zone programming. The objective is to develop a software-controlled safety architecture using 3D time-of-flight (ToF) sensing and real-time spatial awareness to create dynamic protection zones around mobile robotic platforms as they perform tasks such as material handling, inspection, or servicing alongside human personnel. Unlike conventional safety systems, this solution supports motion across space, responds to environmental changes, and enables safe collaboration in unstructured or mixed-use settings—conditions commonly encountered in Air Force maintenance depots, logistics hubs, and operational staging areas. Key technical efforts in this Phase II project include:Adapting SR-1’s perception and zoning technology to mobile platforms with robotic armsDefining a safety lifecycle compliant with ISO 13849 (PLd, Cat. 3) and/or IEC 61508 (SIL 2)Developing hazard and risk assessments, safety requirements specifications (SRS), and traceability documentationConducting internal functional validation and initiating third-party certification engagement (e.g., TÜV or UL)Demonstrating feasibility through lab-based validation on a representative mobile robotic systemAllow safety to “travel” with autonomous mobile platform in dynamic environmentsThe anticipated outcome is a certifiable system that ensures functional safety for mobile robotic arms operating in close proximity to Air Force personnel and equipment. This will enable safe, flexible, and autonomous execution of high-mix, high-risk tasks without the footprint or rigidity of traditional safety infrastructure. Commercially, the system has strong dual-use potential in manufacturing, logistics, and defense applications. By extending SR-1’s core capabilities to mobile platforms, this project advances the Air Force’s strategic objectives around autonomy, human-machine teaming, and agile operational support.